Lindsey Vonn Given Outside Shot at Gold Despite ACL Tear

Oddsmakers still have the 41-year-old skier with a chance to win downhill and Super-G events at the Winter Olympics.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Despite suffering a complete ACL tear in her left knee just a week ago, legendary skier Lindsey Vonn is still being given an outside shot by oddsmakers to win gold medals in the women's downhill and Super-G events at the upcoming Winter Olympics. Vonn, who retired in 2019 before making a surprise comeback in 2024, has the second-best odds to win both events according to DraftKings Sportsbook, trailing only Italy's Sofia Goggia, the 2018 gold medalist in the downhill.

Why it matters

Vonn's potential comeback would be one of the most remarkable in recent sports history if she's able to overcome her latest injury and compete at a high level. As one of the most recognizable and accomplished winter athletes of her generation, Vonn's participation in the Olympics would generate significant interest and attention.

The details

Vonn, 41, suffered the devastating ACL tear during a World Cup race in Switzerland last week. However, she has vowed to not give up and is working intensely with her medical team to try and get back on the slopes in time for the Olympics. During training runs on Friday and Saturday, Vonn appeared to be skiing well, finishing 11th out of 45 competitors in one session.

  • Vonn suffered the ACL tear during a World Cup race in Switzerland last week.
  • The 2026 Winter Olympics kicked off on Friday, February 7, 2026.

The players

Lindsey Vonn

A legendary American skier who is attempting a comeback at the age of 41 after retiring in 2019, despite suffering a complete ACL tear in her left knee just a week before the Winter Olympics.

Sofia Goggia

An Italian skier who won gold in the downhill event at the 2018 Winter Games and is the current favorite to win both the downhill and Super-G events at the 2026 Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“I'm leaning on everyone on my team, my physical therapist, my doctors, my coaches, my trainer, everyone is working as hard as they can to get me to a place where I feel confident, and I'm prepared to just give my best.”

— Lindsey Vonn (New York Post)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.